U.S. patent number 10,017,984 [Application Number 15/182,982] was granted by the patent office on 2018-07-10 for apparatus for supporting blind rollers.
This patent grant is currently assigned to Tribute Window Coverings Inc.. The grantee listed for this patent is Tribute Window Coverings Inc.. Invention is credited to Saffet Bayar, Tony Marzilli.
United States Patent |
10,017,984 |
Marzilli , et al. |
July 10, 2018 |
Apparatus for supporting blind rollers
Abstract
An apparatus supports two blind rollers from a headrail in one
of at least eight configurations. Each blind roller has a first end
coupled to a first blind control mechanism and a second end coupled
to a second blind control mechanism. The apparatus includes a
bracket having a top flange for coupling the bracket to an end of
the headrail. An inner face of the bracket has an upper engagement
projection configured to secure at least one of: the first blind
control mechanism for the upper blind roller in one of two
mechanism orientations, and the second blind control mechanism for
the upper blind roller. The inner face also has at least two lower
engagement recesses, each configured to receive a lower engagement
connector, the projection configured to secure at least one of the
first blind control mechanism and the second blind control
mechanism for the lower blind roller.
Inventors: |
Marzilli; Tony (Mississauga,
CA), Bayar; Saffet (Pendik-Istanbul, TR) |
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Tribute Window Coverings Inc. |
Mississauga |
N/A |
CA |
|
|
Assignee: |
Tribute Window Coverings Inc.
(Mississauga, CA)
|
Family
ID: |
60661654 |
Appl.
No.: |
15/182,982 |
Filed: |
June 15, 2016 |
Prior Publication Data
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|
|
Document
Identifier |
Publication Date |
|
US 20170362892 A1 |
Dec 21, 2017 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
E06B
9/78 (20130101); E06B 9/56 (20130101); E06B
9/50 (20130101); E06B 9/42 (20130101); E06B
9/44 (20130101); E06B 9/72 (20130101); E06B
2009/2458 (20130101); E06B 2009/405 (20130101); E06B
2009/2405 (20130101); E06B 2009/2452 (20130101); E06B
2009/785 (20130101) |
Current International
Class: |
E06B
9/42 (20060101); E06B 9/44 (20060101); E06B
9/56 (20060101); E06B 9/72 (20060101); E06B
9/78 (20060101); E06B 9/50 (20060101); E06B
9/40 (20060101); E06B 9/24 (20060101) |
Field of
Search: |
;160/323.1-326,241 |
References Cited
[Referenced By]
U.S. Patent Documents
Foreign Patent Documents
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2777454 |
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Nov 2012 |
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CA |
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201104892 |
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Nov 2012 |
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TR |
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Other References
Ace Power Blinds Co., Ltd., "Components of Roller Shade Blinds",
pp. 2/2 and 2/4, 2010 catalog. cited by applicant .
Ace Power Blinds Co., Ltd., "Components of Pleated Shades", p. 8/8,
2010 catalog. cited by applicant.
|
Primary Examiner: Mitchell; Katherine W
Assistant Examiner: Shablack; Johnnie A.
Attorney, Agent or Firm: Bereskin & Parr
LLP/S.E.N.C.R.L., s.r.l.
Claims
The invention claimed is:
1. An apparatus for supporting an upper blind roller and a lower
blind roller from a headrail in a selected one of at least eight
configurations, the headrail having a front edge, each blind roller
having a first end coupled to a first blind control mechanism, and
a second end coupled to a second blind control mechanism, the
apparatus comprising: a bracket having an inner face, an outer
face, and a top flange for coupling the bracket to an end of the
headrail, the inner face having an upper engagement projection
configured to releasably secure at least one of: the first blind
control mechanism for the upper blind roller in one of at least two
mechanism orientations, and the second blind control mechanism for
the upper blind roller, the inner face also having at least two
lower engagement recesses, each lower engagement recess configured
to selectively releasably receive a lower engagement connector, the
lower engagement connector configured to releasably secure at least
one of: the first blind control mechanism for the lower blind
roller, and the second blind control mechanism for the lower blind
roller; wherein, in a first configuration of the at least eight
configurations: the first blind control mechanism for the upper
blind roller is secured to the bracket by the upper engagement
projection in a first mechanism orientation, the lower engagement
connector is secured in a first of the at least two lower
engagement recesses, and the first blind control mechanism for the
lower blind roller is secured to the bracket by the lower
engagement connector; wherein, in a second configuration of the at
least eight configurations: the first blind control mechanism for
the upper blind roller is secured to the bracket by the upper
engagement projection in the first mechanism orientation, the lower
engagement connector is secured in the first lower engagement
recess, and the second blind control mechanism for the lower blind
roller is secured to the bracket by the lower engagement connector;
wherein, in a third configuration of the at least eight
configurations: the second blind control mechanism for the upper
blind roller is secured to the bracket by the upper engagement
projection, the lower engagement connector is secured in the first
lower engagement recess, and the first blind control mechanism for
the lower blind roller is secured to the bracket by the lower
engagement connector; wherein, in a fourth configuration of the at
least eight configurations: the second blind control mechanism for
the upper blind roller is secured to the bracket by the upper
engagement projection, the lower engagement connector is secured in
the first lower engagement recess, and the second blind control
mechanism for the lower blind roller is secured to the bracket by
the lower engagement connector; wherein, in a fifth configuration
of the at least eight configurations: the first blind control
mechanism for the upper blind roller is secured to the bracket by
the upper engagement projection in a second mechanism orientation,
the lower engagement connector is secured in a second of the at
least two lower engagement recesses, and the first blind control
mechanism for the lower blind roller is secured to the bracket by
the lower engagement connector; wherein, in a sixth configuration
of the at least eight configurations: the first blind control
mechanism for the upper blind roller is secured to the bracket by
the upper engagement projection in the second mechanism
orientation, the lower engagement connector is secured in the
second lower engagement recess, and the second blind control
mechanism for the lower blind roller is secured to the bracket by
the lower engagement connector; wherein, in a seventh configuration
of the at least eight configurations: the second blind control
mechanism for the upper blind roller is secured to the bracket by
the upper engagement projection, the lower engagement connector is
secured in the second lower engagement recess, and the first blind
control mechanism for the lower blind roller is secured to the
bracket by the lower engagement connector; and wherein, in an
eighth configuration of the at least eight configurations: the
second blind control mechanism for the upper blind roller is
secured to the bracket by the upper engagement projection, the
lower engagement connector is secured in the second lower
engagement recess, and the second blind control mechanism for the
lower blind roller is secured to the bracket by the lower
engagement connector.
2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the first lower engagement
recess is positioned forward of the upper engagement projection,
and the second lower engagement recess is positioned rearward of
the upper engagement projection.
3. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the first blind control
mechanism for the upper blind roller comprises an electric
motor.
4. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the first blind control
mechanism for the upper blind roller comprises a control cord, and
wherein, in the first mechanism orientation, the control cord is
angled forwardly, and wherein, in the second mechanism orientation,
the control cord is angled rearwardly.
5. The apparatus of claim 4, wherein the inner face further
comprises a front control cord separating projection positioned
below and forward of the upper engagement projection, and a rear
control cord separating projection positioned below and rearward of
the upper engagement projection.
6. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the bracket is a first
bracket, and the apparatus further comprises a second bracket
having an inner face, an outer face, and a top flange for coupling
the second bracket to another end of the headrail; the inner face
of the second bracket having a second upper engagement projection
configured to releasably secure at least one of: the first blind
control mechanism for the upper blind roller in one of at least two
mechanism orientations, and the second blind control mechanism for
the upper blind roller; the inner face of the second bracket also
having at least two second lower engagement recesses, each second
lower engagement recess configured to selectively releasably
receive a second lower engagement connector, the second lower
engagement connector configured to releasably secure at least one
of: the first blind control mechanism for the lower blind roller,
and the second blind control mechanism for the lower blind
roller.
7. The apparatus of claim 6, wherein the first and second brackets
are configured such that, in each of the first, second, third,
fourth, fifth, sixth, seventh, and eighth configurations, the first
and second brackets are interchangeable with each other.
8. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the first blind control
mechanism for the upper blind roller comprises a clutch mechanism,
and the second blind control mechanism for the upper blind roller
comprises an end plug.
9. The apparatus of claim 8, wherein the first blind control
mechanism for the lower blind roller comprises a clutch mechanism,
and the second blind control mechanism for the lower blind roller
comprises an end plug.
10. The apparatus of claim 9, wherein the first blind control
mechanisms for the upper and lower blind rollers are configured
such that, in each of the first, second, third, fourth, fifth,
sixth, seventh, and eighth configurations, the first blind control
mechanisms are interchangeable with each other.
11. An apparatus for supporting first and second upper blind
rollers and first and second lower blind rollers from a headrail in
a selected one of at least two configurations, the headrail having
a front edge, each blind roller having a first end coupled to a
first blind control mechanism, and a second end coupled to a second
blind control mechanism, the apparatus comprising: a pair of end
brackets, each end bracket having an inner face, an outer face, and
a top flange for coupling each end bracket to an opposing end of
the headrail, the inner face of each end bracket having an upper
engagement projection configured to releasably secure the first
blind control mechanism of one of the upper blind rollers in one of
at least two mechanism orientations; the inner face of each end
bracket also having first and second lower engagement recesses,
each lower engagement recess configured to selectively releasably
receive a lower engagement connector, each lower engagement
connector configured to releasably secure the second blind control
mechanism of one of the lower blind rollers; and an intermediate
bracket having a pair of opposed outer faces, and a top flange for
coupling the intermediate bracket to a portion of the headrail
located between the opposing ends of the headrail in one of a
forward orientation and a rearward orientation, the outer faces of
the intermediate bracket each having an intermediate upper
engagement projection for releasably securing the second blind
control mechanism of one of the upper blind rollers, and an
intermediate lower engagement projection for releasably securing
the second blind control mechanism of one of the lower blind
rollers, wherein in the forward orientation, the intermediate lower
engagement projections are positioned forward of the intermediate
upper engagement projections, and in the rearward orientation, the
intermediate lower engagement projections are positioned rearward
of the intermediate upper engagement projections; wherein, in a
first configuration of the at least two configurations: the
intermediate bracket is in the forward orientation, and lower
engagement connectors are secured in one of the first and second
lower engagement recesses of each end bracket, such that the lower
engagement connectors and the intermediate lower engagement
projections define a forward lower blind axis, the first blind
control mechanisms for the upper blind rollers are each secured to
one of the end brackets by the upper engagement projection of an
adjacent end bracket in a rearward mechanism orientation, the
second blind control mechanisms for the upper blind rollers are
each secured to one of the intermediate upper engagement
projections, the first blind control mechanisms for the lower blind
rollers are each secured to one of the end brackets by the lower
engagement connector secured in the adjacent end bracket, and the
second blind control mechanisms for the lower blind rollers are
each secured to one of the intermediate lower engagement
projections; and wherein, in a second configuration of the at least
two configurations: the intermediate bracket is in the rearward
orientation, and the lower engagement connectors are secured in one
of the first and second lower engagement recesses of each end
bracket, such that the lower engagement connectors and the
intermediate lower engagement projections define a rearward lower
blind axis, the first blind control mechanisms for the upper blind
rollers are each secured to one of the end brackets by the upper
engagement projection of that end bracket in a forward mechanism
orientation, the second blind control mechanisms for the upper
blind rollers are each secured to one of the intermediate upper
engagement projections, the first blind control mechanisms for the
lower blind rollers are each secured to one of the end brackets by
the lower engagement connector securable in the adjacent end
bracket, and the second blind control mechanisms for the lower
blind rollers are each secured to one of the intermediate lower
engagement projections.
12. The apparatus of claim 11, wherein, for each end bracket: (i)
the first lower engagement recess is offset to one side of the
upper engagement projection, and (ii) the second lower engagement
recess is offset to another side of the upper engagement
projection.
13. The apparatus of claim 11, wherein at least one of the first
blind control mechanisms comprises an electric motor.
14. The apparatus of claim 11, wherein the first blind control
mechanisms for the upper blind rollers each comprise a control
cord.
15. The apparatus of claim 14, wherein the inner face of each end
bracket further comprises a first control cord separating
projection positioned below and offset to one side of the upper
engagement projection of that end bracket, and a second control
cord separating projection positioned below and offset to another
side of the upper engagement projection of that end bracket.
Description
FIELD
This disclosure relates generally to apparatus for supporting blind
rollers, and more specifically to apparatus for supporting two
blind rollers from a headrail in one of at least eight
configurations, and to apparatus for supporting four blind rollers
from a headrail in one of at least two configurations.
INTRODUCTION
Roller blinds are well known. Such blinds are commonly used, for
example, to selectively control the passage of light through
openings (e.g. windows, glass doors, and the like) in residential,
commercial, and industrial buildings.
Typically, many of the components used in an assembly for
supporting blind rollers are designed to be assembled in a
particular configuration. Accordingly, if a different configuration
for the assembled blind is desired, different components may be
required. For example, in a dual roller blind assembly, a
configuration in which the control cords for the blinds are to be
provided on the left hand side of the blinds generally requires a
different set of components than would be required for a
configuration in which the control cords for the blinds are to be
provided on the right hand side of the blinds. This generally
limits the number of possible configurations for the blind assembly
once a set of components has been ordered and/or provided at a site
where the blind assembly is to be installed.
Also, it is common in dual roller blind assemblies for the control
cords for the blinds to be installed on the same side of the
blinds. Accordingly, if it is desired to have controls for one of
the blinds on one side of the assembly and controls for the other
blind on the other side, this may require additional and/or custom
components.
SUMMARY
The following introduction is provided to introduce the reader to
the more detailed discussion to follow. The introduction is not
intended to limit or define any claimed or as yet unclaimed
invention. One or more inventions may reside in any combination or
sub-combination of the elements or process steps disclosed in any
part of this document including its claims and figures.
In accordance with a broad aspect, there is provided an apparatus
for supporting an upper blind roller and a lower blind roller from
a headrail in one of at least eight configurations, the headrail
having a front edge, each blind roller having a first end coupled
to a first blind control mechanism, and a second end coupled to a
second blind control mechanism, the apparatus comprising: a bracket
having an inner face, an outer face, and a top flange for coupling
the bracket to an end of the headrail, the inner face having an
upper engagement projection configured to releasably secure at
least one of: the first blind control mechanism for the upper blind
roller in one of at least two mechanism orientations, and the
second blind control mechanism for the upper blind roller, the
inner face also having at least two lower engagement recesses, each
lower engagement recess configured to releasably receive a lower
engagement connector, the lower engagement connector configured to
releasably secure at least one of: the first blind control
mechanism for the lower blind roller, and the second blind control
mechanism for the lower blind roller; wherein, in a first
configuration: the first blind control mechanism for the upper
blind roller is securable to the bracket by the upper engagement
projection in a first mechanism orientation, the lower engagement
connector is securable in a first of the at least two lower
engagement recesses, and the first blind control mechanism for the
lower blind roller is securable to the bracket by the lower
engagement connector; wherein, in a second configuration: the first
blind control mechanism for the upper blind roller is securable to
the bracket by the upper engagement projection in the first
mechanism orientation, the lower engagement connector is securable
in the first lower engagement recess, and the second blind control
mechanism for the lower blind roller is securable to the bracket by
the lower engagement connector; wherein, in a third configuration:
the second blind control mechanism for the upper blind roller is
securable to the bracket by the upper engagement projection, the
lower engagement connector is securable in the first lower
engagement recess, and the first blind control mechanism for the
lower blind roller is securable to the bracket by the lower
engagement connector; wherein, in a fourth configuration: the
second blind control mechanism for the upper blind roller is
securable to the bracket by the upper engagement projection, the
lower engagement connector is securable in the first lower
engagement recess, and the second blind control mechanism for the
lower blind roller is securable to the bracket by the lower
engagement connector; wherein, in a fifth configuration: the first
blind control mechanism for the upper blind roller is securable to
the bracket by the upper engagement projection in a second
mechanism orientation, the lower engagement connector is securable
in a second of the at least two lower engagement recesses, and the
first blind control mechanism for the lower blind roller is
securable to the bracket by the lower engagement connector;
wherein, in a sixth configuration: the first blind control
mechanism for the upper blind roller is securable to the bracket by
the upper engagement projection in the second mechanism
orientation, the lower engagement connector is securable in the
second lower engagement recess, and the second blind control
mechanism for the lower blind roller is securable to the bracket by
the lower engagement connector; wherein, in a seventh
configuration: the second blind control mechanism for the upper
blind roller is securable to the bracket by the upper engagement
projection, the lower engagement connector is securable in the
second lower engagement recess, and the first blind control
mechanism for the lower blind roller is securable to the bracket by
the lower engagement connector; and wherein, in an eighth
configuration: the second blind control mechanism for the upper
blind roller is securable to the bracket by the upper engagement
projection, the lower engagement connector is securable in the
second lower engagement recess, and the second blind control
mechanism for the lower blind roller is securable to the bracket by
the lower engagement connector.
In some embodiments, the first blind control mechanism for the
upper blind roller comprises a control cord, and wherein, in the
first mechanism orientation, the control cord is angled forwardly,
and wherein, in the second mechanism orientation, the control cord
is angled rearwardly.
In some embodiments, the inner face further comprises a front
control cord separating projection positioned below and forward of
the upper engagement projection, and a rear control cord separating
projection positioned below and rearward of the upper engagement
projection.
In some embodiments, the first lower engagement recess is
positioned forward of the upper engagement projection, and the
second lower engagement recess is positioned rearward of the upper
engagement projection.
In some embodiments, the first blind control mechanism for the
upper blind roller comprises a clutch mechanism, and the second
blind control mechanism for the upper blind roller comprises an end
plug.
In some embodiments, the first blind control mechanism for the
lower blind roller comprises a clutch mechanism, and the second
blind control mechanism for the lower blind roller comprises an end
plug.
In some embodiments, the first blind control mechanisms for the
upper and lower blind rollers are configured such that, in each of
the first, second, third, fourth, fifth, sixth, seventh, and eighth
configurations, the first blind control mechanisms are
interchangeable with each other.
In some embodiments, the first blind control mechanism for the
upper blind roller comprises an electric motor.
In some embodiments, the bracket is a first bracket, and the
apparatus further comprises a second bracket having an inner face,
an outer face, and a top flange for coupling the second bracket to
another end of the headrail; the inner face of the second bracket
having a second upper engagement projection configured to
releasably secure at least one of: the first blind control
mechanism for the upper blind roller in one of at least two
mechanism orientations, and the second blind control mechanism for
the upper blind roller; the inner face of the second bracket also
having at least two second lower engagement recesses, each second
lower engagement recess configured to releasably receive a second
lower engagement connector, the second lower engagement connector
configured to releasably secure at least one of: the first blind
control mechanism for the lower blind roller, and the second blind
control mechanism for the lower blind roller.
In some embodiments, the first and second brackets are configured
such that, in each of the first, second, third, fourth, fifth,
sixth, seventh, and eighth configurations, the first and second
brackets are interchangeable with each other.
In another broad aspect, there is provided an apparatus for
supporting first and second upper blind rollers and first and
second lower blind rollers from a headrail, the headrail having a
front edge, each blind roller having a first end coupled to a first
blind control mechanism, and a second end coupled to a second blind
control mechanism, the apparatus comprising: a pair of end
brackets, each end bracket having an inner face, an outer face, and
a top flange for coupling each end bracket to an opposing end of
the headrail, the inner face of each end bracket having an upper
engagement projection configured to releasably secure the first
blind control mechanism of one of the upper blind rollers in one of
at least two mechanism orientations; the inner face of each end
bracket also having first and second lower engagement recesses,
each lower engagement recess configured to releasably receive a
lower engagement connector, each lower engagement connector
configured to releasably secure the second blind control mechanism
of one of the lower blind rollers; and an intermediate bracket
having a pair of opposed outer faces, and a top flange for coupling
the intermediate bracket to a portion of the headrail located
between the opposing ends of the headrail in one of a forward
orientation and a rearward orientation, the outer faces of the
intermediate bracket each having an intermediate upper engagement
projection for releasably securing the second blind control
mechanism of one of the upper blind rollers, and an intermediate
lower engagement projection for releasably securing the second
blind control mechanism of one of the lower blind rollers, wherein
in the forward orientation, the intermediate lower engagement
projections are positioned forward of the intermediate upper
engagement projections, and in the rearward orientation, the
intermediate lower engagement projections are positioned rearward
of the intermediate upper engagement projections; wherein, in a
first configuration: the intermediate bracket is in the forward
orientation, and lower engagement connectors are securable in one
of the first and second lower engagement recesses of each end
bracket, such that the lower engagement connectors and the
intermediate lower engagement projections define a forward lower
blind axis, the first blind control mechanisms for the upper blind
rollers are each securable to one of the end brackets by the upper
engagement projection of an adjacent end bracket in a rearward
mechanism orientation, the second blind control mechanisms for the
upper blind rollers are each securable to one of the intermediate
upper engagement projections, the first blind control mechanisms
for the lower blind rollers are each securable to one of the end
brackets by the lower engagement connector secured in the adjacent
end bracket, and the second blind control mechanisms for the lower
blind rollers are each securable to one of the intermediate lower
engagement projections; and wherein, in a second configuration: the
intermediate bracket is in the rearward orientation, and the lower
engagement connectors are securable in one of the first and second
lower engagement recesses of each end bracket, such that the lower
engagement connectors and the intermediate lower engagement
projections define a rearward lower blind axis, the first blind
control mechanisms for the upper blind rollers are each securable
to one of the end brackets by the upper engagement projection of
that end bracket in a forward mechanism orientation, the second
blind control mechanisms for the upper blind rollers are each
securable to one of the intermediate upper engagement projections,
the first blind control mechanisms for the lower blind rollers are
each securable to one of the end brackets by the lower engagement
connector securable in the adjacent end bracket, and the second
blind control mechanisms for the lower blind rollers are each
securable to one of the intermediate lower engagement
projections.
In some embodiments, for each end bracket: (i) the first lower
engagement recess is offset to one side of the upper engagement
projection, and (ii) the second lower engagement recess is offset
to another side of the upper engagement projection.
In some embodiments, the first blind control mechanisms for the
upper blind rollers each comprise a control cord.
In some embodiments, the inner face of each end bracket further
comprises a first control cord separating projection positioned
below and offset to one side of the upper engagement projection of
that end bracket, and a second control cord separating projection
positioned below and offset to another side of the upper engagement
projection of that end bracket.
In some embodiments, at least one of the first blind control
mechanisms comprises an electric motor.
It will be appreciated by a person skilled in the art that a method
or apparatus disclosed herein may embody any one or more of the
features contained herein and that the features may be used in any
particular combination or sub-combination.
These and other aspects and features of various embodiments will be
described in greater detail below.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
For a better understanding of the described embodiments and to show
more clearly how they may be carried into effect, reference will
now be made, by way of example, to the accompanying drawings in
which:
FIG. 1 is a perspective view of one configuration of a dual roller
blind assembled using apparatus according to one embodiment;
FIG. 2 is an exploded view of the assembly of FIG. 1;
FIG. 3 is an interior perspective view of a bracket used in the
assembly of FIG. 1, secured to an optional end plate, and a lower
engagement connector and an optional control cord guide;
FIG. 4 is an exterior perspective view of the bracket and control
cord guide of FIG. 3;
FIG. 5 is an interior perspective view of the bracket and end plate
of FIG. 3 in a configuration in which a blind control mechanism for
an upper blind roller is secured in a rearward mechanism
orientation with the control cord guide secured to guide the
control cord of the blind control mechanism for the upper blind
roller, and a blind control mechanism for a lower blind roller is
secured in a forward position using the lower engagement
connector;
FIG. 6 is an interior perspective view of the bracket and end plate
of FIG. 5 in another configuration in which the blind control
mechanism for the upper blind roller is secured in a forward
mechanism orientation with an optional control cord guide secured
to guide the control cord of the blind control mechanism for the
upper blind roller, and the blind control mechanism for the lower
blind roller is secured in a rearward position using the lower
engagement connector;
FIG. 7 is a cross-section view of the assembly of FIG. 1;
FIG. 8a is an exploded view of another configuration of a dual
roller blind assembled using apparatus according to one
embodiment;
FIG. 8b is a cross-section view of the assembly of FIG. 8a;
FIG. 9a is an exploded view of another configuration of a dual
roller blind assembled using apparatus according to one
embodiment;
FIG. 9b is a cross-section view of the assembly of FIG. 9a;
FIG. 10 is a perspective view of yet another configuration of a
dual roller blind assembled using apparatus according to one
embodiment;
FIG. 11 is a perspective view of one configuration of a quad roller
blind assembled using apparatus according to one embodiment;
FIG. 12 is an exploded view of the assembly of FIG. 11;
FIG. 13 is a cut-away perspective view of the assembly of FIG. 11
with a portion of the fascia plate removed for illustration
purposes;
FIG. 14 is a perspective view of an intermediate bracket used in
the assembly of FIG. 11, and blind control mechanisms for upper and
lower blind rollers;
FIG. 15 is an exploded view of a mounting bracket that can be used
to secure a headrail to a wall or ceiling;
FIG. 16 is a cross-section view of the mounting bracket of FIG. 15
coupled to a headrail; and
FIG. 17 is a perspective view of a motorized blind control
mechanism.
The drawings included herewith are for illustrating various
examples of articles, methods, and apparatuses of the teaching of
the present specification and are not intended to limit the scope
of what is taught in any way.
DESCRIPTION OF EXAMPLE EMBODIMENTS
Various apparatuses, methods and compositions are described below
to provide an example of an embodiment of each claimed invention.
No embodiment described below limits any claimed invention and any
claimed invention may cover apparatuses and methods that differ
from those described below. The claimed inventions are not limited
to apparatuses, methods and compositions having all of the features
of any one apparatus, method or composition described below or to
features common to multiple or all of the apparatuses, methods or
compositions described below. It is possible that an apparatus,
method or composition described below is not an embodiment of any
claimed invention. Any invention disclosed in an apparatus, method
or composition described below that is not claimed in this document
may be the subject matter of another protective instrument, for
example, a continuing patent application, and the applicant(s),
inventor(s) and/or owner(s) do not intend to abandon, disclaim, or
dedicate to the public any such invention by its disclosure in this
document.
Furthermore, it will be appreciated that for simplicity and clarity
of illustration, where considered appropriate, reference numerals
may be repeated among the figures to indicate corresponding or
analogous elements. In addition, numerous specific details are set
forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the example
embodiments described herein. However, it will be understood by
those of ordinary skill in the art that the example embodiments
described herein may be practiced without these specific details.
In other instances, well-known methods, procedures, and components
have not been described in detail so as not to obscure the example
embodiments described herein. Also, the description is not to be
considered as limiting the scope of the example embodiments
described herein.
FIGS. 1 and 2 illustrate a dual roller blind assembly 1000 for
supporting two roller blinds that cover at least a portion of an
opening or a transparent or translucent portion of a building (e.g.
a window, glass door, glass wall, and the like). Assembly 1000
includes: a pair of end brackets 100a, 100b which, when assembled,
support blind rollers 10a, 10b via first blind control mechanisms
20a, 20b and second blind control mechanisms 30a, 30b. The assembly
1000 also includes a headrail 400, which supports the end brackets
(and thus the blind rollers); mounting brackets 500a, 500b for
coupling the headrail to a wall and/or ceiling; and fascia plates
210, 220, and 230, which provide a pleasing aesthetic appearance to
the blind assembly. Blinds 12a, 12b hang from blind rollers 10a,
10b, respectively.
As will be discussed further below, the brackets 100a, 100b and the
blind control mechanisms 20a, 20b, 30a, and 30b can be assembled in
a number of configurations. This allows an assembly 1000 to be
configured using the same components to support two roller blinds
in one of at least eight different configurations. As will be
discussed further below, the flexibility of being able to provide
eight configurations using the same components may have one or more
advantages over typical dual roller blind assemblies. As shown in
FIG. 2, each blind roller 10a, 10b is shown as an elongate tubular
member with openings at each end. Blind rollers 10a, 10b may be any
suitable length, and may be cut to a desired length during the
installation process. In the illustrated embodiment, each blind
roller is hollow, and has the same cross-sectional profile along
its entire length. It will be appreciated that variant designs of
blind rollers may be used in alternative embodiments. For example,
a blind roller need not be hollow over its entire length.
In the illustrated embodiment, a first blind control mechanism 20a
is inserted into the hollow portion at an end 8a of the upper blind
roller 10a. When inserted into blind roller 10a, the outer surface
22a of the inserted portion of the mechanism 20a is configured to
engage with the inner surface of the blind roller 10a to prevent
rotation of the blind roller relative to the engaged surface 22a of
the mechanism 20a. Similarly, a first blind control mechanism 20b
is inserted into the hollow portion at an end (not shown) of the
lower blind roller 10b. When inserted into blind roller 10b, the
outer surface 22b of the inserted portion of the mechanism 20b is
configured to engage with the inner surface of the blind roller 10b
to prevent rotation of the blind roller relative to the engaged
surface 22b of the mechanism 20b.
As will be discussed further below, when assembled, each first
blind control mechanism allows a user to selectively rotate the
blind roller to which the mechanism is coupled relative to the end
brackets 100a, 100b, in order to raise or lower a blind supported
by the blind roller. Preferably, the first blind control mechanisms
20a, 20b are interchangeable with each other. For example, as shown
in FIG. 2, first blind control mechanism 20a is shown as being
coupled to end 8a of the upper blind roller 10a, and first blind
control mechanism 20b is shown as being coupled to end 8b of the
lower blind roller 10b. Alternatively, first blind control
mechanism 20a could be coupled to end 8b of lower blind roller 10b
and first blind control mechanism 20b could be coupled to end 8a of
the upper blind roller 10a to provide an equivalent assembled
configuration. Accordingly, a first blind control mechanism may be
referred to generically herein as a first blind control mechanism
20, having an outer surface 22 and a mounting recess 21 (see FIG.
12).
Returning to FIG. 2, a second blind control mechanism 30a is
inserted into the hollow portion at an opposite end 9a of the upper
blind roller 10a. When inserted into the blind roller, the outer
surface 32a of the inserted portion of the mechanism 30a is
configured to engage with the inner surface of the blind roller 10a
to prevent rotation of the blind roller relative to the engaged
surface 32a of the mechanism 30a. Similarly, a second blind control
mechanism 30b is inserted into the hollow portion at an end 9b of
the lower blind roller 10b. When inserted into the blind roller,
the outer surface 32b of the inserted portion of the mechanism 30b
is configured to engage with the inner surface of the blind roller
10b to prevent rotation of the blind roller relative to the engaged
surface 32b of the mechanism 30b.
As will be discussed further below, when assembled, each second
blind control mechanism allows a blind roller to which the
mechanism is coupled to be rotated relative to the end brackets
100a, 100b, so that a blind supported by the blind roller may be
raised or lowered. As with the first blind control mechanisms, the
second blind mechanisms 30a, 30b are preferably interchangeable
with each other. For example, as shown in FIG. 2, second blind
control mechanism 30a is shown as being coupled to end 9a of the
upper blind roller 10a, and second blind control mechanism 30b is
shown as being coupled to end 9b of the lower blind roller 10b.
Alternatively, second blind control mechanism 30a could be coupled
to end 9b of lower blind roller 10b and second blind control
mechanism 30b could be coupled to end 9a of the upper blind roller
10a to provide an equivalent assembled configuration. Accordingly,
a second blind control mechanism may be referred to generically
herein as a second blind control mechanism 30, having an outer
surface 32 and a mounting recess 31.
First and second blind control mechanisms 20, 30 may be secured to
the blind rollers 10a, 10b using any suitable coupling method. For
example, the first and second blind control mechanisms 20, 30 may
be dimensioned to provide a friction fit when inserted into an end
of a blind roller. Alternatively, or additionally, the first and
second blind control mechanisms 20, 30 may be otherwise configured
to be mechanically coupled to a blind roller (e.g. using a set
screw or other mechanical fastener, etc.).
As shown in FIG. 2, the blind rollers 10a, 10b and first and second
blind control mechanisms 20a, 20b, 30a, and 30b are supported by
end brackets 100a, 100b. Preferably, the end brackets 100a, 100b
are interchangeable with each other. That is, bracket 100a could be
used in place of bracket 100b, and vice versa, to provide an
equivalent assembled configuration.
FIG. 3 illustrates an end bracket, referred to generically as end
bracket 100. End brackets 100a, 100b shown in FIG. 2 are each
examples of end bracket 100. As shown in FIG. 3, each end bracket
100 has an inner face 102. Inner face 102 has an upper engagement
projection 110 extending therefrom. Upper engagement projection 110
is dimensioned to be received within a mounting recess 31 provided
on a second blind control mechanism 30 (see e.g. bracket 100b in
FIG. 2). Upper engagement projection 110 is also dimensioned to be
received within a mounting recess 21 provided on a first blind
control mechanism 20 (see e.g. bracket 100a in FIG. 2).
Accordingly, either a first blind control mechanism 20 or a second
blind control mechanism 30 may be secured to upper engagement
projection 110.
When inserted into a mounting recess 31 of a second blind control
mechanism, the outer surface of the upper engagement projection 110
is configured to engage with the inner surface of the mounting
recess 31 to prevent rotation of the engaged surface of the recess
31 relative to the engagement projection 110. Accordingly, when a
second blind control mechanism 30 is secured to upper engagement
projection 110, the outer surface 32 of the inserted portion of the
blind control mechanism 30 (and thereby the blind roller 10 to
which the mechanism is coupled) may be rotated relative to the end
bracket 100.
When inserted into a mounting recess 21 of a first blind control
mechanism, the outer surface of the upper engagement projection 110
is configured to engage with the inner surface of mounting recess
21 to prevent rotation of the engaged surface of the recess 21
relative to the engagement projection 110. Accordingly, when a
first blind control mechanism 20 is secured to upper engagement
projection 110, a blind control cord 26 may be used to selectively
rotate the outer surface 22 of the inserted portion of the blind
control mechanism 20 (and thereby selectively rotate the blind
roller 10 to which the mechanism is coupled) relative to the end
bracket 100. In this way, blind control cord 26 may be used to
raise and/or lower a blind.
Blind control cord 26 may be a rope, chain, ball chain, or any
suitable mechanism that allows a user to selectively rotate blind
roller 10 to raise and/or lower a blind. Alternatively, a first
blind control mechanism 20 may not include a control cord, and may
instead include an electric motor and suitable control circuitry
(e.g. a power source, a receiver or transceiver, etc.) to allow a
user to remotely raise and/or lower a blind.
FIG. 17 illustrates a motorized blind control mechanism 50 having a
first end 52 and a second end 54. When first end 52 in inserted
into the hollow portion at an end of a blind roller, and the first
end 52 is advanced inside the hollow portion until an outer surface
54a at the second end 54 is positioned in the hollow portion of the
blind roller, the outer surfaces 52a and 54a of the inserted
mechanism 50 are configured to engage with the inner surface of the
blind roller to prevent rotation of the blind roller relative to
the engaged surfaces 52a and 54a of the mechanism 50.
Motorized blind control mechanism 50 also has a mounting recess 51
provided at the second end 54. Motorized blind control mechanism 50
may be secured to the upper engagement projection 110 and/or to the
lower engagement connector 130 of a mounting bracket 100 using any
suitable coupling method. For example, the recess 51 may be
dimensioned to provide a friction fit when mounted on the
engagement projection 110 and/or the engagement connector 130.
Alternatively, an adapter (not shown) may be provided between
recess 51 and engagement projection 110 and/or the engagement
connector 130 engagement.
In operation, motorized blind control mechanism 50 receives a
signal from a user (e.g. wirelessly via antenna 56) and, in
response, uses an internal motor to rotate the outer surfaces 52a
and 54a of the inserted mechanism 50 relative to the mounting
recess 51, and thereby rotating the blind roller to which the
mechanism is coupled relative to the end bracket 100. The motor may
be driven by any suitable power source, including e.g. one or more
on-board batteries or power drawn from an external power supply,
such as an external battery or an AC cord that is configured to
plug into a household electrical outlet. It will be appreciated
that other configurations of a motorized blind control mechanism
may be possible.
Returning to FIG. 3, inner face 102 of end bracket 100 also has two
lower engagement recesses 124, 122. Each lower engagement recess
120 is dimensioned to receive a mounting projection 132 provided on
a lower engagement connector 130 (see e.g. FIG. 2). When inserted
into lower engagement recess 124 or 122, the outer surface of the
mounting projection 132 is configured to engage with the inner
surface of the mounting recess 120 to prevent rotation of the lower
engagement connector 130 relative to the end bracket 100.
Lower engagement connector 130 is dimensioned to be received within
mounting recess 31 provided on second blind control mechanism 30
(see e.g. bracket 100b in FIG. 2). Lower engagement connector 130
is also dimensioned to be received within a mounting recess 21
provided on first blind control mechanism 20 (see e.g. bracket 100a
in FIG. 2). Accordingly, either a first blind control mechanism 20
or a second blind control mechanism 30 may be secured to lower
engagement connector 130.
When inserted into a mounting recess 21 or 31 of a first or second
blind control mechanism, respectively, the outer surface of lower
engagement connector 130 is configured to engage with the inner
surface of the mounting recess 21 or 31 to prevent rotation of the
engaged surface of the recess 21 or 31 relative to the engagement
connector 130.
First and second blind control mechanisms 20, 30 may be secured to
the upper engagement projection 110 and to the lower engagement
connector 130 using any suitable coupling method. For example, the
recesses 21, 31 may be dimensioned to provide a friction fit when
mounted on the engagement projection 110 and the engagement
connector 130. As shown, upper engagement projections 110 and lower
engagement connector 130 each have a square cross-sectional
profile. It will be appreciated that other configurations may be
possible. For example, the engagement projection and the engagement
connector may have an alternative symmetrical profile (e.g.
X-shaped, pentagonal, or hexagonal), or an asymmetric profile.
Also, while the upper engagement projection and the lower
engagement connector preferably have the same cross-sectional
profile, it will be appreciated that the upper engagement
projection 110 and the lower engagement connector 130 may have
different profiles that still allow the engagement projections to
be secured to either first blind control mechanism 20 or to second
blind control mechanism 30. For example, upper engagement
projection 110 may have a square profile, and lower engagement
connector 130 may have an X-shaped profile.
As shown in FIG. 3, each end bracket 100 also has a top flange 150.
Flange 150 may be used to couple the bracket 100 to an end of the
headrail 400 using any suitable coupling method. For example,
flange 150 may be dimensioned to provide a friction fit when
inserted into the profile of headrail 400, e.g. as shown in FIG. 2.
Alternatively, or additionally, flange 150 may be otherwise
configured to be mechanically coupled to headrail 400 (e.g. using a
set screw or other mechanical fastener, etc.). Headrail 400 may be
any suitable length, and may be cut to a desired length during the
installation process.
Since either a first blind control mechanism 20 or a second blind
control mechanism 30 may be secured to upper engagement projection
110, and since either a first blind control mechanism 20 or a
second blind control mechanism 30 may be secured to lower
engagement connector 130 (which itself may be secured to an end
bracket 100 in either of the lower engagement recesses 124, 122),
an assembly 1000 may be configured to support two roller blinds in
a number of different configurations using the same components.
For example, as shown in FIG. 5, in one configuration a lower
engagement connector 130 (not shown in FIG. 5) is inserted into
lower engagement recess 124 (not shown in FIG. 5) of bracket 100,
first blind control mechanism 20a for upper blind roller 10a (not
shown in FIG. 5) is secured to bracket 100 via upper engagement
projection 110 (not shown in FIG. 5), and first blind control
mechanism 20b for lower blind roller 10b (not shown in FIG. 5) is
secured to bracket 100 via lower engagement connector 130 (not
shown in FIG. 5). Notably, first blind control mechanism 20a is
secured to upper engagement projection 110 in an orientation in
which the control cord 26a is directed away from the first blind
control mechanism 20b for the lower blind roller 10b. More
specifically, the control cord 26a is positioned around control
cord separating projection 142.
Also shown in FIGS. 4 and 5 is an optional control cord guard 310.
When provided, control cord guard 310 is preferably secured to
bracket 100 with the control cord 26 of a first blind control
mechanism 20 (e.g. control cord 26a in FIG. 5) positioned in the
channels 322, 324 defined by flanges 312, 314, and 316 (see FIG.
4). It will be appreciated that other configurations may be
possible. As shown, control cord guard 310 is secured to bracket
100 by inserting projections 307 into bores 107, and a screw 313 is
inserted through aperture 103 in bracket 100 and into bore 311. It
will be appreciated that any suitable coupling method may
alternatively be used.
Another configuration is shown in FIG. 6. In this configuration,
the lower engagement connector 130 (not shown in FIG. 6) is
inserted into lower engagement recess 122 (not shown in FIG. 6) of
bracket 100, a first blind control mechanism 20a for an upper blind
roller 10a (not shown in FIG. 6) is secured to bracket 100 via
upper engagement projection 110 (not shown in FIG. 6), and a first
blind control mechanism 20b for a lower blind roller 10b (not shown
in FIG. 6) is secured to bracket 100 via lower engagement connector
130. Notably, first blind control mechanism 20a is secured to upper
engagement projection 110 in a different orientation than in the
configuration shown in FIG. 5. In the orientation shown in FIG. 6,
first blind control mechanism 20a is secured to upper engagement
projection 110 so that the control cord 26a is directed away from
the first blind control mechanism 20b for the lower blind roller
10b. More specifically, the control cord 26a is positioned around
control cord separating projection 144.
Another optional control cord guide 330 is shown in FIG. 6. Control
cord guide 330 is substantially a mirror-image of control cord
guard 310, although this need not be the case.
Since each bracket 100, lower engagement connector 130, and any two
of first or second blind control mechanisms 20, 30 can be assembled
in a number of configurations, an assembly 1000 may be configured
using the same components to support two roller blinds in one of at
least eight different configurations.
For example, in the configuration shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the lower
blind roller 10b is secured in a forward position (i.e. away from a
window being covered) relative to upper blind roller 10a, and the
first blind control mechanisms 20a, 20b (and their control cords
26a, 26b) are on the right hand side of the blinds 12a, 12b.
In another configuration, as shown in FIG. 8, the lower blind
roller 10b is secured in a rearward position, and the first blind
control mechanisms 20a, 20b (and their control cords 26a, 26b) are
on the right hand side of the blinds 12a, 12b.
In another configuration, as shown in FIG. 10, the lower blind
roller 10b is secured in a forward position, the first blind
control mechanism 20a (and control cord 26a) for the upper blind
roller is on the right hand side of the blinds 12a, 12b, and the
first blind control mechanism 20b (and control cord 26b) for the
lower blind roller is on the left hand side of the blinds 12a,
12b.
In another configuration (not shown), the lower blind roller 10b is
secured in a rearward position, the first blind control mechanism
20a (and control cord 26a) for the upper blind roller is on the
right hand side of the blinds 12a, 12b, and the first blind control
mechanism 20b (and control cord 26b) for the lower blind roller is
on the left hand side of the blinds 12a, 12b.
In another configuration (not shown), the lower blind roller 10b is
secured in a forward position, the first blind control mechanism
20a (and control cord 26a) for the upper blind roller is on the
left hand side of the blinds 12a, 12b, and the first blind control
mechanism 20b (and control cord 26b) for the lower blind roller is
on the right hand side of the blinds 12a, 12b.
In another configuration (not shown), the lower blind roller 10b is
secured in a rearward position, the first blind control mechanism
20a (and control cord 26a) for the upper blind roller is on the
left hand side of the blinds 12a, 12b, and the first blind control
mechanism 20b (and control cord 26b) for the lower blind roller is
on the right hand side of the blinds 12a, 12b.
In another configuration (not shown), the lower blind roller 10b is
secured in a forward position, and the first blind control
mechanisms 20a, 20b (and their control cords 26a, 26b) are on the
left hand side of the blinds 12a, 12b.
In another configuration (not shown), the lower blind roller 10b is
secured in a rearward position, and the first blind control
mechanisms 20a, 20b (and their control cords 26a, 26b) are on the
left hand side of the blinds 12a, 12b.
As noted above, the flexibility of being able to provide eight
configurations using the same components may have one or more
advantages over typical blind assemblies. For example, this may
reduce the number of components required to be manufactured and/or
stocked. Also, this may simplify the installation procedure, as an
installer will not be required to be familiar with as many
different components. Also, this may provide additional options at
the installation stage, as the same components that have been
provided in anticipation of being installed in one configuration
(e.g. with control cords on the right) may be installed in another
configuration (e.g. with control cords on the left). This may allow
a number of different configurations to be trialed on site to
assist in selecting a preferred configuration.
Assembly 1000 may be provided with optional fascia end caps 210,
220. These fascia end caps may provide a pleasing aesthetic
appearance to the blind assembly. Fascia end caps 210, 220 may be
secured to the brackets 100a, 100b using any suitable coupling
method. For example, end caps 210, 220 may be provided with one or
more projections on their respective inner faces, the projections
being dimensioned to provide a friction fit when inserted into
complementary recesses on the outer face 104 of an end bracket 100
(e.g. bores 105 shown in FIG. 4). Alternatively, or additionally,
the fascia end caps may be otherwise configured to be mechanically
coupled to a bracket 100.
Additionally, or alternatively, assembly 1000 may be provided with
one or more optional fascia plates. For example, as shown in FIGS.
1 and 2, fascia plate 230 provides a pleasing aesthetic appearance
to the blind assembly 1000, e.g. by concealing the rollers and
other parts discussed above. Fascia plate 230 may be secured to the
brackets 100a, 100b and/or to headrail 400 in any suitable manner.
Preferably, as shown in FIG. 7, fascia plate 230 has an upper
engagement tongue 235 that can be releasably interlocked with a
channel 410 provided on a front edge of headrail 400. Fascia plate
230 may be any suitable length, and may be cut to a desired length
during the installation process.
Blind rollers 10a, 10b may be used to support a blind comprising
any suitable blind material, including an opaque or `black-out`
blind (that blocks all or substantially all light), a translucent
blind (that allows some light to pass through the blind material),
and the like.
For example, as shown in FIGS. 1, 2, and 7, blind 12a may be a
single layer translucent blind, and blind 12b may be a single layer
black-out blind. Each blind 12a, 12b is supported from--and can be
independently raised and/or lowered by--its respective blind roller
10a, 10b. As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, bottom profiles 14a, 14b are
preferably provided at the lower edge of each blind 12a, 12b,
respectively (along with end caps 15a and 15c which are mounted to
bottom profile 14a, and end caps 15b and 15d which are mounted to
profile 14b) to provide additional mass to the bottom of the blind
(e.g. for stability), and/or to provide a pleasing aesthetic
appearance for the blind.
As shown in FIGS. 8a and 8b, assembly 1000 may also be used to
support a multi-layer blind 40. In the illustrated example, blind
40 is made of a material that has a series of horizontal strips of
varying translucency; strips 41 are relatively translucent, while
strips 42 are relatively opaque. As shown in FIG. 8b, one end of
the blind 40 is secured to upper blind roller 10a, and the other
end of the blind 40 is secured to the headrail 400. Preferably, the
blind 40 is secured to the headrail by positioning an end of the
blind in the channel 410 between the engagement tongue 235 of
fascia plate 230, although those skilled in the art will appreciate
that the blind 40 may be secured to the head rail 400 in any other
suitable fashion. The blind 40 is also preferably looped through a
bottom profile 16 having an internal roller 18 supported by
bushings 19 and end caps 17a, 17b. In this arrangement, as the
blind 40 is raised or lowered by rotating the blind roller 10a, the
horizontal strips of material 41, 42 are brought into and out of
alignment, altering the amount of light that can pass through the
blind 40. It will be appreciated that blind 40 may alternatively be
secured to lower blind roller 10b instead of to upper blind roller
10a, and that the other end of the blind 40 may be secured to an
alternative fixed location on assembly 1000 instead of to headrail
400.
As shown in FIGS. 9a and 9b, assembly 1000 may alternatively be
used to support another type of multi-layer blind 45. In the
illustrated example, blind 45 is made of a rear panel of material
46, and a front panel of material 47 that has a series of
horizontal strips of varying translucency; strips 48 are relatively
translucent, while strips 49 are relatively opaque. Blind 45 also
has a number of threads or filaments 60a, 60b that are anchored at
the bottom end of the front panel and woven through the front panel
47 at predetermined intervals. As shown in FIG. 9b, one end of the
rear blind panel 46 is secured to upper blind roller 10a, and on
end of the front blind panel 47 is secured to the headrail 400.
Preferably, the blind panel 47 is secured to the headrail by
positioning an end of the blind in the channel 410 between the
engagement tongue 235 of fascia plate 230, although those skilled
in the art will appreciate that the blind panel 47 may be secured
to the head rail 400 in any other suitable fashion. The upper ends
of filaments 60a, 60b are also secured to upper blind roller 10a. A
bottom profile 14b is preferably provided to secure the lower edges
of blind panels 46, 47 together and to provide additional mass to
the bottom of the blind (e.g. for stability), and/or to provide a
pleasing aesthetic appearance for the blind. In this arrangement,
as the blind 45 is raised or lowered by rotating the blind roller
10a, the rear panel of material 46 rolls up like a typical roller
blind, while the rolling up of filaments 60a, 60b results in the
horizontal strips of material 48, 49 rolling up as in a roman
shade. Accordingly, multi-layer blind 45 may be characterized as a
hybrid zebra/roman blind. It will be appreciated that blind 45 may
alternatively be secured to lower blind roller 10b instead of to
upper blind roller 10a, and that the upper end of the blind panel
47 may be secured to an alternative fixed location on assembly 1000
instead of to headrail 400.
FIGS. 11 to 13 illustrate a quad roller blind assembly 2000 for
supporting four roller blinds in front of an otherwise transparent
or translucent portion of a building (e.g. a window, glass door,
and the like). Assembly 2000 includes: a pair of end brackets 100a,
100b and an intermediate bracket 600 which, when assembled, support
blind rollers 10a, 10b, 10c, and 10d via first blind control
mechanisms 20a, 20b, 20c, 20d, and second blind control mechanisms
30a, 30b, 30c, and 30d; headrail 400, which supports the end
brackets and the intermediate bracket (and thus the blind rollers);
mounting brackets 500a, 500b for coupling the headrail to a wall
and/or ceiling; and fascia plates 210, 220, and 230', which provide
a pleasing aesthetic appearance to the blind assembly. Blinds 12a,
12b, 12c, and 12d hang from blind rollers 10a, 10b, 10c, and 10d,
respectively. Components similar to those in assembly 1000 have
been similarly numbered, and will not be described further.
As shown in FIG. 14, intermediate bracket 600 has a first outer
face 602 and a second opposed outer face 604. Each outer face 602,
604 has an upper engagement projection 610 extending therefrom.
Upper engagement projection 610 is dimensioned to be received
within a mounting recess 31 provided on a second blind control
mechanism 30. Upper engagement projection 110 may also be
dimensioned to be received within a mounting recess 21 provided on
a first blind control mechanism 20.
Each outer face 602, 604 also has a lower engagement projection 630
extending therefrom. Lower engagement projection 630 is dimensioned
to be received within a mounting recess 31 provided on a second
blind control mechanism 30. Lower engagement projection 630 may
also be dimensioned to be received within a mounting recess 21
provided on a first blind control mechanism 20.
Intermediate bracket 600 also has a top flange 650. Flange 650 may
be used to couple the bracket 600 to an intermediate portion of
headrail 400 using in any suitable fashion. For example, flange 650
may be dimensioned to provide a friction fit when inserted into the
profile of headrail 400, e.g. by inserting the flange at the end of
the profile and sliding it into the intermediate position, and/or
by positioning bracket 600 at the intermediate position and
rotating bracket 600 from an orientation in which flange 650 does
not engage the profile of headrail 400 to an orientation in which
that flange 650 engages the profile of headrail 400. Alternatively,
or additionally, flange 650 may be otherwise configured to be
mechanically coupled to headrail 400 (e.g. using a set screw or
other mechanical fastener, etc.).
As shown, the upper engagement projections 610 are axially aligned
with each other, and the lower engagement projections 630 are also
are axially aligned with each other. However, the lower engagement
projections 630 are horizontally offset from the upper engagement
projections 610. Accordingly, intermediate bracket 600 may be
secured to the headrail 400 in either a forward orientation (in
which the lower engagement projections 630 are offset forwardly of
the upper engagement projections 610, as shown in FIG. 12) or in a
rearward orientation (in which the lower engagement projections 630
are offset rearwardly of the upper engagement projections 610).
Since intermediate bracket 600 may be secured to the headrail 400
in either a forward or rearward orientation, and since lower
engagement connectors 130a, 130b may be secured to the end brackets
100a, 100b in either of that brackets lower engagement recesses
124, 122, an assembly 2000 may be configured to support four roller
blinds in one of at least two different configurations using the
same components.
For example, as shown in FIGS. 10-13, in one configuration the
intermediate bracket 600 is secured to the headrail in a forward
orientation, a lower engagement connector 130a is inserted into
lower engagement recess 124a of bracket 100a, and a lower
engagement connector 130b is inserted into lower engagement recess
122b of bracket 100b. First blind control mechanisms 20a and 20b
are secured to bracket 100a, first blind control mechanisms 20c and
20d are secured to bracket 100b, and second blind control
mechanisms 30a, 30b, 30c, and 30d are secured to intermediate
bracket 600. In this configuration, the lower blind rollers 10b,
10d are secured in a forward position (i.e. away from a window
being covered) relative to the upper blind rollers 10a, 10c.
In a second configuration (not shown), the intermediate bracket 600
is secured to the headrail in a rearward orientation, a lower
engagement connector 130a is inserted into lower engagement recess
122a of bracket 100a, and a lower engagement connector 130b is
inserted into lower engagement recess 124b of bracket 100b In this
configuration, the lower blind rollers 10b, 10d are secured in a
rearward position (i.e. closer to a window being covered) relative
to the upper blind rollers 10a, 10c.
Assembly 1000 or 2000 may be secured to a structure to position
blinds 12a, 12b in a desired position, e.g. relative to a window,
glass door, and the like. Preferably, headrail 400 is secured to a
wall and/or a ceiling, and the remainder of assembly 1000 or 2000
is supported directly or indirectly from headrail 400. Headrail 400
may be secured using any suitable method known in the art.
For example, as shown in FIGS. 15 and 16, one or more brackets 500
may be used to mount headrail 400 to a structure. Bracket 500 has a
wall plate 502 having a one or more apertures configured to allow
securement of plate 502 to a wall using one or more mechanical
fasteners. Bracket 500 also has a top flange 504 and a headrail
engagement plate 510 that is configured to slide along one or more
elongate projections 506. One or more springs or other biasing
members 512 are positioned between the top flange 504 and the
headrail engagement plate 510 to bias the plate 510 away from wall
plate 502. As shown in FIG. 16, when a profile at the rear of
headrail 400 is engaged with an engagement feature 508 on an
underside of headrail engagement plate 510, springs 512 bias the
headrail engagement plate 510 towards a front edge of headrail 400,
thereby securing engagement plate 510 with recess 420.
As used herein, the wording "and/or" is intended to represent an
inclusive-or. That is, "X and/or Y" is intended to mean X or Y or
both, for example. As a further example, "X, Y, and/or Z" is
intended to mean X or Y or Z or any combination thereof.
While the above description describes features of example
embodiments, it will be appreciated that some features and/or
functions of the described embodiments are susceptible to
modification without departing from the spirit and principles of
operation of the described embodiments. For example, the various
characteristics which are described by means of the represented
embodiments or examples may be selectively combined with each
other. Accordingly, what has been described above is intended to be
illustrative of the claimed concept and non-limiting. It will be
understood by persons skilled in the art that other variants and
modifications may be made without departing from the scope of the
invention as defined in the claims appended hereto. The scope of
the claims should not be limited by the preferred embodiments and
examples, but should be given the broadest interpretation
consistent with the description as a whole.
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